Giandomenico Picco, an Italian diplomat who played a crucial role in resolving conflicts around the world for the United Nations, passed away on Sunday in Wilton, Conn., north of Norwalk at the age of 75. His son Giacomo confirmed that he died at an assisted living facility due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease.
Picco’s career at the U.N. spanned 20 years, during which he held various positions that placed him in the midst of some of the most dangerous global crises. He was involved in managing the conflict between Greece and Turkey over Cyprus, mediating between New Zealand and France after the Rainbow Warrior incident, and helping arrange the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Known for his tall stature, sharp attire, and discreet nature, Picco was a mysterious figure within the U.N. He would often disappear from headquarters in Manhattan and reappear in countries like Lebanon, Iran, and Afghanistan without going through border controls.
Javier Pérez de Cuéllar, who worked with Picco in Cyprus and later as U.N. Secretary-General, referred to him as his “chief troubleshooter” and an “unarmed soldier of diplomacy.” One of their most challenging missions was negotiating the release of Western hostages held by terrorist groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Picco’s efforts in Iran, which was sponsoring these groups, were instrumental in securing the release of many hostages. He made numerous trips to Lebanon to meet with hostage takers, often without bodyguards, and succeeded in bringing back several captives, including Terry Waite and Terry Anderson.
In recognition of his exceptional service, President George H.W. Bush presented Picco with the Presidential Award for Exceptional Service in 1991. Picco’s memoir, “Man Without a Gun: One Diplomat’s Secret Struggle to Free the Hostages, Fight Terrorism, and End a War,” chronicles his remarkable career in diplomacy.
Born in Udine, Italy, in 1948, Picco held degrees in political science and international relations. He was married twice and is survived by his sons Giacomo and Liam, as well as a granddaughter. After his successful mission to free the last remaining hostages in Lebanon, Picco resigned from the U.N. and quietly left the public eye, ending a distinguished career in international diplomacy.
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